Parents

First Aid: Chest Pains

Chest pain can be caused by many things, from a pulled muscle to asthma. Depending on the reason for the pain, the symptoms may differ. Chest pain in children is rarely a sign of serious heart trouble.

Signs and Symptoms

tightness

discomfort

burning sensation

pain when taking deep breaths

coughing

wheezing

What to Do

Call the doctor whenever your child has ongoing chest pain.

Seek Emergency Medical Care

If:

Chest pain is accompanied by:

trouble breathing or rapid breathing

a racing heart or heart palpitations (fluttering)

pressure in the chest

dizziness or fainting

blue or gray color around the lips

exercise or exertion

Think Prevention!

It's impossible to always avoid chest pain, considering its many potential causes. But you can:

Make sure kids get routine immunizations to prevent infections that could cause chest pain.

Follow the doctor's treatment plan if your child has asthma.

Avoid foods that seem to bring on indigestion.

Make sure kids have a thorough physical examination before participating in organized sports.